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During its February meeting, the Drakes Branch Town Council honored its former mayor.

For 36 years, Denise Pridgen served the town in the capacity of council member, vice mayor, and, lastly, as mayor.

As Mayor, Pridgen served from 2002 to 2022.

As part of honoring Pridgen, the town adopted a resolution. “She proved to be a dedicated servant of the people and a productive member of the council, as Vice-Mayor and then Mayor” the resolution read.

In early 2022 Pridgen decided not to seek re-election as mayor, and Drakes Branch Vice Mayor Phillip Jackson ran and won the seat.

“She was part of a lot of the improvements that as taken place in the town over the years,” said Jackson.”Under her tenure, several new businesses were opened in the town.”

Jackson said Pridgen always had the best interest of the town at heart.

The Charlotte Gazette reached out to Pridgen for comment, but as of press time, she has not responded to requests.